TROY, Mich. – Meritor announced today it has appointed three executives to new vice president posts. All three appointments are effective June 1.
The company has appointed Chris Villavarayan to the position of vice president, Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management, Commercial Truck. In this position, Villavarayan is responsible for global manufacturing operations, increasing results-based lean initiatives, improving the supply chain network, and continuing the focus on standardization and process excellence.
"Since December 2009, Chris has been the driving force and change agent in the growth of Meritor’s business in India and management of Automotive Axles Ltd., the company’s partnership with the Kalyani Group," said Tim Bowes, president, Commercial Truck, Meritor. "Chris exceeded all expectations in overseeing Meritor’s operations, sales and marketing initiatives and product development in India which have set the stage for continued growth in this important market."
Prior to Villavarayan’s role in India, he was general manager, Operations Planning & Strategy. He joined Meritor in June 2000. He holds a bachelor of science in engineering from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario.
Meritor also has appointed Chris Snodgrass to the position of vice president, Axles & Drivelines, Commercial Truck, North America. In this position, Snodgrass is responsible for the P&L and strategic direction for the company’s axles and drivelines produced for global truck manufacturers in North America.
"During his tenure at Meritor, Chris has proven himself to be an exceptional leader who has energized our operations and supply chain," said Bowes. "His experience with our global operations and significant industry knowledge make him a perfect candidate to lead our North American axle and driveline business."
Previously, Snodgrass was vice president, Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management. Prior to joining Meritor in 2007, he served as general manager of North American Engine Operations and Supply Chain Management for Detroit Diesel, a division of Daimler Truck. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Concordia Lutheran University in Portland, Ore.
Additionally, Meritor has appointed Joe Plomin to the position of vice president, Global Brakes, Commercial Truck, effective June 1. In this position, Plomin will lead the company’s Americas and European brake business. He will also provide strategic direction for the company’s brake joint ventures around the world.
"During his nearly five years running the Americas Truck business, Joe has done a tremendous job in successfully managing all aspects of the business," said Bowes. "He is a proven industry leader with an extensive track record of building strong, profitable businesses and establishing excellent customer relationships. He is the perfect choice to lead Meritor’s global brakes team."
Previously, Plomin was vice president, Truck Americas, for Meritor. Prior to joining Meritor, he held positions as president of the Electrical Division of Remy International and senior vice president/general manager of the heavy-duty business unit of Remy International, as well as president of Stewart Warner Instruments.
Plomin serves as a board member of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association and holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Knox College in Galesburg, Ill.
